Name: Easy Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3 tbsp butter; 1 small onion, diced; 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup diced celery; 3 cups peeled and diced potatoes; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of cheeseburger soup to make you feel cozy and satisfied on a chilly day. This creamy, cheesy soup brings together all the best flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a comforting, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

I first discovered this recipe while searching for ways to use up extra ground beef, and it’s been a hit ever since. Quick, budget-friendly, and totally customizable, this soup is bound to become a family favorite. Ready to dive into cheesy, beefy deliciousness? Let’s get started!

Why You'll Love This Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for this rich and creamy soup. Whether you’re a cheeseburger fanatic or simply love an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Quick and Simple: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when time is tight.
Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples and affordable ingredients, you can feed a family of four without breaking the bank.
Kid-Approved: The creamy base, cheesy goodness, and mild flavors are a guaranteed win with even the pickiest eaters.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or ingredients, like crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, or even a dollop of sour cream, to make it your own.

The combination of creamy textures and comforting flavors will make this your go-to recipe whenever you’re craving a hearty, soul-warming dish. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this soup shine!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this cheeseburger soup lies in its simple ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the dish.

Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is the star of this recipe, providing rich, savory flavor. For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold cheesiness to the soup. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Colby or Monterey Jack for extra depth.
Potatoes: Yukon gold or russet potatoes create a hearty base and help thicken the soup naturally. Dice them into small, even cubes for quicker cooking.
Carrots and Celery: These veggies add a subtle sweetness and texture to balance the richness of the soup.
Heavy Cream: This is the key to a luxurious, creamy consistency. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
Chicken Broth: A flavorful base that ties everything together. You can swap it with beef broth for an extra meaty taste.

Special Equipment:

A large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is ideal for cooking this soup evenly and without scorching the bottom.

How to Make This Easy Cheeseburger Soup

Creating this delicious cheeseburger soup is straightforward and stress-free. Here’s how to make it step by step:

Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and simmer for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve hot, topped with additional cheese, crumbled bacon, or fresh parsley if desired.

Total Time: About 30 minutes from start to finish!

Storage Options

This cheeseburger soup is just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. To prevent the cream from separating, leave it out before freezing and add it when reheating.
Reheating: Warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If reheated from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge first.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ways to customize it:

Meat Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different twist.
Add Vegetables: Stir in peas, corn, or diced tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Spice It Up: For a kick, add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets to make a keto-friendly version.
Cheese Options: Try smoked Gouda, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and make this soup uniquely yours!

This Easy Cheeseburger Soup brings the comforting flavors of a backyard cookout right to your kitchen. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Don’t wait – grab your ingredients and try it tonight!